Family makes donation to District’s music program in memory of son

October 3, 2023

Jeremy Bossert, a member of the Class of 2011, was an outstanding tuba player who represented the Baldwinsville school district on the Marching Band and the Pep Band. 

Jeremy passed away in November 2022 after complications due to seizures. He was 29 years old. His parents, Mark and Holly Bossert, wanted to make a donation to the Baldwinsville instrumental music program in his memory. They donated $13,000 to go towards the purchase of band instruments for students to use. The donation was accepted by the Board of Education meeting on Monday, October 2, 2023. 

“Jeremy excelled, matured, and found a ‘home’ in the Baker High School band program,” his parents said. “Casey Vanderstouw and Randall Bennett were treasured and valuable role models in Jeremy's experiences.”

Superintendent Dr. Joseph M. DeBarbieri said Jeremy was an all around great person. 

“I was very fortunate to know Jeremy or J-Boss as his peers and maybe a few teachers referred to him because I was his High School Principal while he was a student,” Dr. DeBarbieri said. “Jeremy’s contributions helped Baldwinsville bring home a NYS Field Band Conference Championship in 2009. That show continues to be one of my favorites.”

After Jeremy graduated from Baker High School, he continued his participation in the Marching Band at the University at Buffalo.

“This led to other Baker High School classes and marching band participants getting a chance to watch Jeremy and his UB Bandmates during the exhibitions at the NYSFBC Championships each year,” Dr. DeBarbieri said. “Jeremy had a following and certainly made us proud!”

Dr. DeBarbieri thanked Jeremy’s parents for the donation. 

“Most certainly, Jeremy is smiling and happy about this donation toward the program that meant so much to him, and our family,” his parents said.